use this as an example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'use this as an example' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce an illustration or demonstration of a point you are making in your writing. For example, "The best way to illustrate this concept is to use a graph. Use this as an example; if the trend line is decreasing, it indicates a negative correlation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

"Although the report was unclassified, some will use this as an example," he said.

The New York Times

Several years later when I worked as a social work practice teacher, mentoring students, I would use this as an example of abject stupidity.

The Guardian

Seeing as these are types that generally know how they want to vote anyway, the will be no effect on 2015, unless the opposition can use this as an example of pointlessly costly coalition reform.

The Guardian

And when serious gender discrimination occurs in far off countries like Pakistan, we can use this as an example of human rights violations and to speak up for others that are being treated unfairly.

The Washington Post

About that conflicted public realm: you start one chapter of the book talking about President Trump and the crowd size at his inauguration, and you use this as an example of our contested reality.

The New Yorker

Rotenberg adds that he'll be testifying next week before the Senate about emerging privacy issues and intends to use this as an example of the problem.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"We'll be using this as an example in our classes when we talk about journalists and sensitivity to issues," she said.

The New York Times - Sports

"I am only using this as an example to calm any fears".

BBC

We have used this as an example of inferring potential targets and compared this to the published data for these molecules.

Journal of Cheminformatics

We have used this as an example of inferring potential targets and compared this to the published data for these molecules (Table 1).

Journal of Cheminformatics

"I am only using this as an example to calm any fears". The statement also said the law says a person is innocent until proven guilty and that until the club found out any more information there would be no further comment.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions or explanations, follow the phrase "use this as an example" with a clear and concise explanation of how the example illustrates the point.

Common error

Avoid using "use this as an example" without explicitly linking the example back to the concept you're illustrating; make the connection direct and obvious to the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "use this as an example" functions as an imperative directive, guiding the audience to consider a specific instance for better understanding. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase introduces illustrations or demonstrations of a point.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

28%

Science

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "use this as an example" is a grammatically correct and commonly used directive to illustrate a concept through a specific instance. According to Ludwig, this phrase serves an instructional and explanatory purpose across various contexts, from news and media to scientific and wiki sources. It maintains a neutral register, fitting both formal and informal communication. While frequently used, it is crucial to clearly link the example back to the concept being illustrated to avoid confusion. The phrase can be substituted with alternatives like "take this as an illustration" or "consider this a case in point" depending on the specific nuance desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

let's use this to illustrate

Directly states intent to clarify through an example.

take this as an illustration

Replaces "example" with "illustration", focusing on clarifying a concept.

for instance, consider this

Introduces an example with an introductory phrase.

consider this a case in point

Highlights that the subject is a clear demonstration of the argument.

view this as an instance

Emphasizes that what's presented is a specific occurrence.

as a teaching moment, use this

Highlights the instructive quality of the illustration.

treat this as a demonstration

Focuses on showing how something works or is done.

as a specific illustration, note this

Brings attention to a precise and detailed case.

regard this as a precedent

Positions the subject as a guide for future actions.

see this as a paradigm

Implies the subject is a model or pattern.

FAQs

How can I effectively "use this as an example" in my writing?

To effectively "use this as an example", introduce the concept, then clearly present your example, and finally, explain how the example relates back to and supports the initial concept. This ensures clarity for your audience.

What phrases are similar to "use this as an example"?

Similar phrases include "take this as an illustration", "consider this a case in point", or "view this as an instance", each offering a slightly different nuance.

Is it appropriate to "use this as an example" in formal writing?

Yes, "use this as an example" is generally appropriate, even in formal writing. However, ensure that the example is relevant and strengthens your argument or explanation. More formal synonyms might also be considered for academic contexts.

How do I avoid misusing the phrase "use this as an example"?

To avoid misusing the phrase, ensure the example directly relates to the point you are making and adds value to your explanation. Avoid using irrelevant or confusing examples that could detract from your message.